News

New Jersey library goes high-tech

January 30, 2011

Checking out DVDs at the Brentwood Public Library in New Jersey is easy with the deployment of Library Automation Technologies' LAT-Stema kiosks.

According to a press release, the library recently deployed LAT-Stena kiosks in the fall of 2010 after losing more than $8,000 worth of media, including DVDs and games. Theft was a major budget issue at the library because each stolen item costs more than $60 to replace, said Danielle Zubiller, head of circulation at the library.

One alternative was to keep media behind the desk, but that would mean tedious check-out steps, so staff decided to buy a LAT-Stena system that holds 1,000 discs.

"LAT-Stena offers unparalleled capability to increase security, improve efficiency and optimize staff performance in dealing with media," said Oleg Boyarsky, president and CEO of LAT. "LAT-Stena is a 'game-changing' technology, and this case study is yet another reason for libraries to consider it."

Zubiller agreed, saying the system is easy to use. Librarians simply scan the Barcode and the discs pop out.

"We just take (the discs) from the LAT-Stena and give to our patrons," she said. " It's that easy. It was clearly designed with circulation staff in mind. It works with all major ILS systems and streamlines the circulation of our games, while providing us with the peace of mind of 100 percent security and accuracy.

"Our circulation staff is now able to service three to four patrons at a time."